Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish that offers a satisfying crunch while being light and full of flavor. These crispy, golden bites of zucchini are coated in a blend of Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs, baked to perfection, and served hot. They are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in a tasty treat.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Make the coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the zucchini slices: Dip each zucchini slice into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Spray with cooking spray: Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini slices with cooking spray to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini slices are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy option: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese variation: Swap the Parmesan cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Herb addition: Incorporate dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover Zucchini Parmesan Crisps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the crisps on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
10 FAQs
- Can I use other vegetables for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute zucchini with eggplant or yellow squash for a different flavor and texture.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the zucchini slices and coat them with the Parmesan mixture, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. However, it’s best to bake them fresh for the crispiest results.
- Can I fry the zucchini instead of baking it? Yes, you can fry the zucchini slices in a skillet with oil for a crispier texture, though baking is a lighter option.
- How do I make the crisps more flavorful? Experiment with adding herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary, or even a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to elevate the flavor.
- Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of seasoned? Yes, you can use fresh breadcrumbs, but adding your own seasoning (such as garlic powder, salt, and Italian herbs) will make them tastier.
- Can I freeze these crisps? It’s not recommended to freeze the finished crisps because they may lose their crispiness when reheated. However, you can freeze the coated zucchini slices before baking, then bake them straight from the freezer.
- What can I serve with these Zucchini Parmesan Crisps? These crisps are great as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Serve them with marinara sauce or a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or garlic aioli.
- Can I use low-fat cheese? Yes, you can use low-fat Parmesan or reduced-fat cheese options if you’re looking to cut down on calories.
- Can I skip the breadcrumbs? If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour, crushed cornflakes, or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute.
- What makes the crisps extra crispy? The key to achieving crispy zucchini is ensuring that the slices are not overcrowded on the baking sheet and that they are lightly sprayed with cooking spray before baking.
Conclusion
Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini while delivering the satisfying crunch of a crispy snack. Whether you’re looking for a healthy appetizer, a side dish, or a fun way to enjoy your vegetables, these crispy delights are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them today for a light and crunchy treat that everyone will love!